WHAT IS THE HOLD UP?
Jason Gregor
April 26 2012 03:04PM
As Oiler fans patiently wait to see which direction their beloved hockey team is going in, I wonder why the delay in announcing plans for the management and coaches? All the arrows are pointing to Steve Tambellini staying on as GM. He represented the Oilers at the draft lottery, he flew to Sweden to chat with Oscar Klefbom, he stopped in and watched the Under-18 Championships and he was in OKC earlier this week watching the Barons dispatch of the Houston Aeros in four games, but still no official announcement of a contract extension.
How come?
Wouldn't it be better to have an announcement sooner, rather than later. Is there any benefit in waiting? Is it fair to keep Tom Renney wondering about his future?
Many have stated the Oilers should wait and see if Alain Vigneault and other come available, and I understand that, but if Renney isn't you guy then they should let him know, and if he is, then make it public.
During his end-of-the-season address, Tambellini essentially said he wanted Renney to get away for a few weeks and then present him his plan for the future. I'd like to think those two are meeting sometime soon to discuss Renney's plan. And if those meetings take place this week, then the Oilers should have a presser next week to announce their plans.
I suspect they will have one presser announcing Tambellini's extension, and at the same time he will announce whether Renney has been re-signed or if they are going in another direction.
The only issue is that President of Hockey Operations, Kevin Lowe, has already left to Europe for the World Championships. Lowe, along with the first wave of players left today to get ready for the tournament from May 4th to 20th. Will the Oilers have a press conference announcing Tambellini's extension without him? If not, will they wait until the tournament is over before making any announcements?
I don't think it is fair to Renney to make him wait that long, unless they've agreed to an extension and won't announce it until then. I doubt that is the case. I suspect the longer we go without an announcement regarding Renney the less likely it is he'll return for his 3rd season as head coach.
I've stated it many times, whether it is Renney or a new coach they will have more success next season, strictly because the players are better.
I spoke with three coaches this week, two former NHL coaches and one AHL coach, and all three of them said the Oilers would be a very attractive spot for any coach. They have some great top-end talent in Hall, RNH, Eberle and the 1st pick this June, and all three of them talked highly of Devan Dubnyk. They felt he was ready to be a reliable starter.
The Oilers are in a good position, but they need to make a decision with Renney. I know they won't announce the coach before Tambellini's extension is official, but the optics look worse the longer they let Renney twist in the wind.
QUICK HITS
- I wonder if all those who felt Dennis Wideman would be a great signing for the Oilers feel the same way after watching the Capitals. He brings offence, but he was a disaster at times in his own zone. The Oilers need to upgrade their D, but I wouldn't be offering a big contract to Wideman.
- I've heard many wondering if Matt Moulson will be in the running for team Canada in 2014. He's got good hands, but on the big ice surface his footspeed will be a major concern. Spoke to two managers who said, "Big ice, but he can't skate well enough. Won't be a candidate."
- The goalie position will be wide open. It's so open that some have thrown Mike Smith's name in the ring, despite one decent NHL season. Prior to this year he'd never won more than 14 games. He's had an incredible season, but he'll need to continue playing like this for the next 18 months if he wants to be a serious contender. Many goalies have had one or even two great years, but then disappeared.
- Tyler Pitlick had two goals and four points in OKC's first round series victory over Houston. He's looked much more comfortable on the wing, than at centre, and he's getting stronger. He'll push for a spot in camp, but another half, or full, season in the AHL might be the best thing for him long term. No need to rush him onto the roster.
- Tambellini recently stated he thinks there are 6 or 7 guys in the AHL who could play in the NHL. Paajarvi, Lander and Hartikainen are the closest. Colten Teubert will get a look, and I think Pitlick will play, but won't be a regular until 2013/2014. Who are the other two? Alex Plante and Phillippe Cornet/Curtis Hamilton maybe? In three years who do you think will have the biggest impact in Edmonton?
- It is disgusting and sad that some fans resorted to racist comments on twitter (warning not easy to read) after Joel Ward's OT goal last night. I still think many of us are naive in thinking that racism doesn't exist. It is still there, unfortunately, and hopefully these types of incidents will make more people realize we need keep educating people about the ignorance of racism. It is easy to say it was just Bruins fans, but the reality is that racism exists in many places, and hopefully people have the courage to continue to stand up against it.
Well they are hedging their bets. If Alain do or doesn't get fired , Oilers would not know if he would take the job.
As far as Sutter they will decide after WC.
So they wait if nothing works they will keep Renney
Just wow at the Twitter comments...
If Steve Tambellini isn't being kept on, or the future is in doubt to a serious degree would it be a possible explanation for leaving the head coaching position empty?
A new GM would probably want the power to appoint their own head coach.
Maybe Tambellini is under the same "come back to us with your plan in 2-weeks" ultimatum that Renney is.
The optics of the situation could make more sense if we remove the thought that Steve's new contract is a slam dunk... But then again it could just be another slow play this administration is famous for.
I wonder how many of these people who made racist comments criticized and made fun of canucks fans last year during the riots.
I hope to God no oilers fans would ever do this, and I apologize as I am not trying to associate all bruins fans to this.
Why does it matter to us ( the fans and the media )? I will suggest Renney and the management team are fully aware of the timetable and what the plan is going forward. Tambo isn't exactly someone who shares very much. The Oilers have delivered news in the past on their timetable and this is the approach being used now. Call it due diligence, call it annoying, it is what it is.
Not that it's right, but who exactly is shocked about what down on twitter last night? We had some sort of white power rally here in Edmonton a few weeks ago, so comments about Ward don't shock me. It's unfortunate, but that's life when you have millions of people with access to twitter.
I have to ask about these optics about Renney looking worse. We heard this a few years ago when KP and others were left dangling. It was made to be a big deal and then as the year went on we saw that this was quite normal in the NHL.
Between ST and Lowe flying all over the world, and the arena news I can see why there is a delay.
No point in letting the guy officially go until you know whether or not you have a replacement.
I personally think Renney was told awhile ago he's gonna be back. Tambi saying he told him to come backl with a plan(blatant BS).
As for Alain Vigneault? Why is he such an upgrade on Renney? I really dont see it. Cuz he wins? Any coach would win with the Canucks lineup during the regular season. Playoffs? Not so much.
JG, if past behaviour is all we have to judge Tamby by, then he will dither and not make a decision until he absolutely has to.
Honestly, I'm sure he spends all morning trying to figure out what pants to wear! Mr. Dithers has no clue on class......a classy individual would be forthright with their employees, not leave them hanging based on a presentation of how to move the team forward.
Exactly what has Tamby done to move the team forward? His requesting for another job interview with Renny is ridiculous and makes him look like a moron!
Really liking that Pitlick has stepped up his game so far in the OKC playoffs, but wondering if PRV can do the same? I doubt it.
Agree with your notes on Wideman, he is definitely not someone the Oil should be looking at.
Nice to hear some coaches making good comments about Dubnyk, I think next year he solidifies himself as the starter. Hopefully one day he becomes an elite goalie, but I would be happy if he was just above average. Considering we haven't had that for a while it would be nice.
Inexcusable to think people still act this way. Sad
@Rama Lama
I'm sure a lot of clubs sit down with their coach and discuss what they can change and do going forward.
Why is Renney hanging? If someone wanted him I'm pretty sure ST would allow them to talk to Renney. Just like coaches/management/other personnel you know the situation, if you don't know what is going on make the call yourself and just ask to be let go.
I would like to think that we aren't heading back to the days of every contract every negotiation being dragged out. But it sure seems like it.
I will say another thing with regards to Ward and Racism. I own a small store and talk to alot of people, racism is rapant. I had a guy tell me that if Obama won (he was american) he would leave the country because no blank blank....We think we are getting more tolerant, Im not so sure.
Jason,
The ignorance of racism is that the word "racism" incorrectly implies there is more than one human race. If we Abolished the word "racism" all that we would have to deal with would be ingnorance.
saludos,
EL PRESIDENTE
JG - How about this thought on Renney: I wonder if ST has indicated to Renney that he is looking for a little more fire and brimstone out of the head coach and he is giving Tom a little time to decide if he's got that in him or wants to be that guy. They do this all the time in job performance evals in other occupations.
I am so shocked and hurt at the comments posted by those people on twitter. Racism is so wrong and its so rampant. Its everywhere. I dont think people understand how hurtful racism is. Being called out for being born with a skin color other than white. Why cant people just get along. In Edmonton, racism is out of control , just check out the comments under edmonton sun news online. I have friends from all walks of life and they all have great personalities. Bad apples come in every color, yet the visible minorities all get blamed for the action of one. I hope people realize that we are all human beings. Judge people by their actions please, not the color of their skin. Jason, please do a segment about racism on your show and raise awareness of this issue. Hockey is a sport all Canadians love. Canadians come from all walks of life. Media in the US have made a mockery out of ethnicities which influences millions of people. Jason use your radio show to bring about change. Thanks.
I grew up in Canada till I was 19 and started university in the deep south. My first impressions of the south were "I cant believe how racist these people are, if people said this stuff in Canada they would get put in there place by a crowd."
Now after 10 years of living below the Mason Dixon line my view has changed. I understand why there is so much hate between whites and blacks. Its not right but both races have encourage the hate down here and both sides are responsible.
In looking back I think this is part of the reason that a large portion of black NHL players play in Canada. Its generally a more tolerant and respectful country. Didn't the Oilers have 5 black players on the starting roster at some point point in the Grier days?
The sad thing is the Ward ordeal is tame compared to soccer in Europe.
That's the way ST is - people knew that when they signed up - very (over) analytical.
Is there really a race? Will the sun come up if we wait for two more weeks?
Rushing is how bad decisions are made. It's not nice, I'll give it that, but business is business. TR has to put up and shut up til June 1. If the don't decide by then, he's free to jump.
A lot of candidates are still occupied coaching, or not yet fired.
Sutter, World Championship Nelson, AHL playoffs MacT, AHL playoffs Vigneault, not yet fired.
etc.
Why limit the pool by making a decision now? They don't need a coach till after the draft.
Openly verbalizing your intolerance of others due to race, religion, gender, minorities etc. is inexcusable. I'm sure gonna miss typing "Eat Sh!t Flames".
I tried to look at when coaches in the last few years have been let go in the offseason and it looks like about 2/3 were let go in April and 1/3 in May or June so I am okay with ST delaying the Renney decision for a month or so, as long as he doesn't miss out on someone like Vignault or Tippett because of dithering. While I am hoping that Renney is gone I do hope he is treated with some degree of respect as he had a pretty thankless job coaching through this rebuild.
I completely agree on Wideman. He has stay away written all over him. I think we would be better off counting on Whitney being healthy then overpaying this guy. I just listened to a podcast with a Capital fan and he said he felt like Wideman was on the ice for every goal against.
ST did a ok job of moving out players that were finished as Edmonton Oilers in terms of moving out Staios and Moreau, the organization did a horrible job of moving out training and equipment staff as well as dealing with Souray.
As far as drafting first overall and such these things are no brainers. They have done a ok job down in OKC with player development and providing a good atmosphere to play in.
Pro scouting and identifying current NHLers as well as dealing with contract situations and just day to day overall running a NHL team they are horrible.
How can a manager not have enough healthy body's available that they gotta call up a guy from the ECHL and then the coach comes out and say well he has to make it in the AHL first. The other blunder who evers fault it may be was the Paajarvi call up.
Other players in the NHL come out and say EDM is easy to play againts.
It really boils down to this if your Katz and your a proud guy how can you put trust in people that can't make simple descions as we all know thing are gonna get much tougher managing all the superstar players in todays game. Time to hire more qualified help or move on from ST.
Renney's contract isn't over till June 30. Stauffer mentioned a few weeks ago that it's possible Renney has health issues. Didn't he have an accident last summer walking on the dock to a boat. Plus he had a concussion in the morning skate late in the season. Do we know the circumstance of Renney's health.
It's the same crap every year. Some fans have no patience whatsoever and want things done yesterday and not tomorrow.
A nutcracker has more patience than some Oilers fans.
There are two things in this world that I can't stand. People that are intolerant of other peoples race, creed and culture. And the Dutch.
OMFG!! SERIOUSLY???!?! I just read those Tweets from twits.
I hope that many of you are like me and will correct someone when they are straight out being an @ss. Have the courage to stand up to your friends, co-workers, and strangers to let them know that it is not OK. If you stay silent, you are condoning it, and you are just as ignorant and backwards as they are.
COURT OF OILERSNATION
COWBOY vs. Jump to Conclusions
All Rise Court is now in session.
Q. Are the Edmonton Oilers compelled to announce a decision on Coach Renney at this point in time? A. No
Q. Would it be beneficial at this stage of the rebuild for the Edmonton Oilers to ensure a thorough and complete evaluation of their coaching ranks and exercise due diligence in the evaluation of other available options? A. Yes Q. Is Coach Renney a knowledgeable and experienced hockey person in the NHL? A. Yes
Q. Has Coach Renney or anyone close to Coach Renny indicated "he is being unfairly treated"? A. No
Q. Is Coach Renney capable of managing his professional and personal well being? A. I would suggest yes.
Q. Is there evidence to suggest a decision and announcement MUST be made at this time on Coach Renney's contract.
A. No
I rest my case.
COWBOY OUT
Thank you EL PRESIDENTE. I like to think about humans and differences like this (whether it's race, gender, or sexual orientation):
If you were hiking in the woods, and having a great day, with the sun out, a good friend beside you, birds chirping, a lovely stream running beside you, and you see a BEAR!
Do you look and say "Oh my there is a black bear" or "There is a Grizzly bear" or "There is a man bear or a woman bear."
No. You say "OMG!!! THERE'S A F@#%ING BEAR!!!!!!!"
Well, when I see people I like to think, "OMG THERE IS A F@#%ING HUMAN!"
I consider fans banging on the glass as classless. I can not express enough disgust at those comments.
Renney wouldn't be offered a job before July 1st anyway so what difference does it make? I'm sure even if he was cut loose now he would wait to see what options are out there as well. This is just business and there is nothing wrong with it.
Frankly, wouldn't it be worse to cut him loose so as not to have to pay him the rest of his salary?
On the Quick Hits:
- I'd like Lander, Pitlick, Hamilton and pretty much all of the current OKC squad save Paajarvi to spend another full season in the AHL. JW's article recently about the time Detroit's players spend in the AHL to ensure that they are as up-to-speed as possible when they arrive in the NHL laid out a pretty convincing argument in favour of.
- No thanks on Wideman. I would prefer the Oilers target Justin Schultz with perhaps someone like Matt Carle, Jason Garrison or Brad Stuart as a consolation prize. I expect the defense to go through some changes next season with Whitney's role being re-interpreted into a strong second-pairing rather than expecting him to be a stud #1 guy.
- Race is a human construct. Like religion and politics, it can easily be turned into a tool for hatred. I know technically education is the long-term answer, but sometimes a serious smack upside the head is the most immediately rewarding response to such willful ignorance.
Not much we can do about the hate levelled towards Ward. It's rampant in every one of our lives. Whites vs whites, whites vs chocolates,white versus terrorist cultures. We pick on each other equally as well as discriminating against others different than ourselves.
Most of the younger generation can't even get along driving down the streets these days. Most cars/trucks appear as though they aren't equiped with lane changing signals anymore, right here, commonplace on the streets of Edmonton. So selfish,each one of us feeling we're so much more important than the person seated in the next vehicle.
I like Steve taking the time to see if Ruff, Alain, or any other coaches become available before making his decision, I think its responsible.
I dislike Steve's ability to improve the issues that plague this team for half a decade.
Is it too much to ask for 2 defenceman and an upgrade at the backup goalie position?
Steve has a way of making his job seem a lot harder than it is, and we fans have been falling for it for wat too long now. This is the year, if he doesnt upgrade this defence in the summer, he will be jobless shortly after.
It cant be that hard, Burke aquired Franson, Gardiner, Aulie, Komisarek, Phaneuf, Liles all during his time with the leafs - again it cant be that hard.
Yes not so sure about keeping Renney wondering about his fate? This is however the brain trust we have to deal with. Regards to possible D option I do recall one of the nation writers, I'm thinking Robin making a pitch or consideration for Ian Cole out of St Louis not playing on the big team but a 1st round pick with some size a bit of sand paper to him. No need to over spend on free agents.
Is it possible that the announcing of plans for coaching and management have been delayed to add intrigue to the "Oil Change" series? That is, is it possible that Renney and Tambo already know they are returning and simply playing the situtaion up for the sake of TV. Seems crazy but how much influence does the series have as far as creating a story line which really does not effect the Oilers but leaves the audience wanting to know what happened behind the scenes?
What about Joel Q??? Might his head be on the chopping block in Chicago after 2 years of first round exists??
I personally would like his style over AV or even Sutter for that matter.
As much as it would be in Renney's favor to know ASAP what's going on, it is not necessarily in the Oilers best interest to do so. ST's sole job is to put together a winning hockey team,it's not making Renney happy. Renney made multiple mistakes to put himself in the position that he is currently in. ST does not owe him any grace by prematurely firing or resigning him. If taking a few extra weeks is what is needed to make a more sure hiring (or firing), then that is what ST is supposed to do. It is not an ideal situation for Renney, but then again he didn't exactly leave ST with an ideal decision.
Welcome to Business 101.
What is the nature of Renney's health issues people keep referring to in the media? Could it be serious enough to affect his ability to coach next year?
Plus we dont know if there is or isn't an agreement already. TR may already know his fate. Too many people think that just because they havent said anything publicly doesn't mean they don't have a decision or that Tom Reney is left hanging.
All the Tamo haters are hockey fans likely not business people. They want snap decisions and quick trades. Businesses that succeed don't do that. The ones that do may get lucky occasionally but out of business the next time.
Oilers are a private business and we have no right to demand transparency. While there decision not to be may cost fans and attendance all indicators are that isn't the case.
And if they haven't told him, he is still under contract and needs to sit as you say. Reality is that fans want o know but have no right to demand it other than to vote with their $.
I would to see oils nation use the next and last game boxes on the right for the world championships. This way we don't need to see a 3-0 loss on the site for 6 months.
I would to see oilersnation use the next and last game boxes on the right for the world championships. This way we don't need to see a 3-0 loss on the site for 6 months. :)
@db7X3
What you said except insert Khabibulin everytime you write Renney.
With regard to the twitter business, wow. Idiots say idiotic things when there is no chance they will be held accountable.
Wideman? Looks like caveat emptor,but Schultz is unproven and to bank on him as a top 4 D next year is unwise. We need a proven Dman, Garrison has looked the part this postseason.
Could this be just as simple as Tambellini wants Renney but KLowe wants Sutter?? Maybe there is a little power struggle in the upper ranks of Oiler Management over who they want to run the ship and teach the kids going forward.
Totally agree with your comments . If anything I would rather see Tambellini gone & Renney stay
The way the organization seemingly drags out every situation to the very last minute tells me that this may be a directive right from Katz and how he does business.
Look at when Katz bought the team. It seemed like every spot of positive news was on the final hour of negotiations.
Then you look at the Hemsky contract re-signing and how that went to nearly the end before getting done.
Then the Taylor Hall choice for first overall.
Now Tambellini and Renney etc.
It seems this is a way of doing business. I don't really have a problem with it because it puts the power in the teams hands and that's where it should be.
And don't forget the bloody Belgians!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iXvhcw07do
Seems like once upon a time on an Oilers' fanblog a deep thinker was talking about 'bananas' potentially 'fried chicken' when it came to a team that had multiple players with the same skin pigmentation as Ward.
It was supposed to be hilarious and people pointing out that it was (to say the least) disgraceful were told to "Get a sense of humour."
You're right. It's everywhere.
If internet discourse has taught us anything it's that perceived anonymity always brings out the best in people.
I wonder what percentage of those people would have the balls to say that stuff to his face.
If they wouldn't they've got no business littering cyberspace with it.
Cowards.